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It’s going really well. I think this is the best summer of my life, so far. I’ve been putting in a lot of work. I want to prove to everybody that I’m a better player. Last summer was probably the worst summer of my life and I knew this summer I had to come with it. I’ve just got to keep working.

What’s made this summer so good for you?

My versatility on the court and being more active. My main flaw was not being active and my coaches always tell me I’ve got to stay active to be the player I want to be. So, I’ve been more active and my versatility has been showing, too.

Did you feel like you played well during the high school season?

I know for sure I could have played way better. Of course, we came up short as a team, but I’m already working for next year. Next year’s going to be a much better season for me and my teammates.

After Simeon had won four state titles in a row, what did it feel like for you all to come up short?

I was a part of two of those state titles, but this last year was pretty much everybody on the team’s first time playing varsity. This was my first year playing a lot. We had a lot of young guys. It was tough. Next year we’ll have like seven seniors, so it’s going to be much different.

What in particular are you focusing on with your game this summer?

My jumpshot. I’ve been working on that a lot, getting shots up. I’ve been in the weight room, too, trying to get stronger and ready for the next level.

What are you most excited about getting ready for Illinois?

Just the atmosphere. I love competition and the college level, you’re playing against the best players in the country and the Big Ten is the best conference in the country. Coach Groce, ‘m excited to get down there and start working him him.

Are you working on any of the other 2015 guys to join you?

Yeah, Elijah Thomas, that’s my No. 1 target right now, we talk pretty much every day. I’m trying to get him to come. I think it’s working out. Me and Charles (Matthews) are like brothers and I thought that one was working out, but he had to choose what was best for him. I’m going to keep working on (Thomas), but I’m not going to bother him too much. He’s like another brother to me, I won’t pressure him too much because I know he’s getting calls from a bunch of different schools every day.

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